GTA 6 Fans Beware, Fake Downloads Are Now Spreading Dangerous Malware

Beware! Bad actors are reportedly cashing in on the hype around GTA 6, and you might be the one to fall victim. A new cybersecurity research report details how cybercriminals are using fake downloads, leaked-build claims, and bogus early-access offers to target impatient fans.

Fake GTA 6 downloads are hiding dangerous malware

According to cybersecurity firm Netcraft, scammers are using many tricks to lure GTA 6 fans. These include fake leaked builds, early-access offers, mobile versions, and supposedly free downloads. Netcraft reviewed GTA 6-related domains registered between July 1 and October 27. It identified 121 newly registered domains containing the name CyberLeek, with 100 appearing in August. Some impersonate Rockstar and advertise supposedly verified game downloads.

One website offered a file named GTAVI.exe, which 34 of 68 VirusTotal security engines flagged. Another promoted a fake launcher before demanding $100 in cryptocurrency. These offers exploit genuine leak-related attention, but the publicly shared material did not include a playable game download.

Image Source: Netcraft

The danger goes beyond fake payment pages. In September, security researchers at Huntress analyzed a malicious GTA 6 ISO containing remote-access trojans, an information stealer, and ransomware. Some files were disguised as Rockstar and Steam applications.

After Rockstar confirmed the massive 212GB of preload file size, cybercriminals are trying their luck to scam people through different means. But you should be aware not to fall for it. We advise you not to download any builds through unofficial channels. Rockstar says that code-in-box versions will start appearing at retailers on November 12, which will allow you to redeem codes and download the game. For more details, check Rockstar’s official pre-load support page.

via: Neowin